Ingredient | Quantity
| Ground beef | 1 lb (450 g) |
| Russet potatoes | 4 medium, peeled and sliced |
| Onion | 1 medium, diced |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, minced |
| Cream of mushroom soup | 1 can (10.5 oz / 300 g) |
| Milk | 1/2 cup |
| Shredded cheddar cheese| 2 cups |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| Black pepper | 1/2 tsp |
| Paprika (optional) | 1/2 tsp |
| Olive oil or butter | 1 tbsp |
Optional Additions**
– **Vegetables**: Add corn, peas, or green beans for extra nutrition.
– **Spices**: A pinch of cayenne or chili powder for heat.
– **Topping**: Crushed Ritz crackers or fried onions for a crispy finish.
– **Cheese Varieties**: Swap or mix with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack.
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### **Tips for Success**
– **Pre-cook Potatoes**: Parboil slices for 5–7 minutes to ensure they cook through.
– **Drain Beef**: Remove excess grease after browning for a less oily dish.
– **Layer Evenly**: Alternate meat, sauce, and potatoes for even cooking and flavor.
Bake Covered**: Use foil for the first part of baking to prevent drying.
– **Broil at End**: Uncover and broil last 5 minutes for golden, bubbly cheese.
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**Instructions**
1. **Preheat Oven**: Set to 375°F (190°C).
2. **Cook Beef**: In a skillet, heat oil/butter over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, sauté until translucent. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Drain excess fat.
3. **Mix Sauce**: In a bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth.
4. **Layer Casserole**: In a greased 9×13 baking dish, layer half the potatoes, half the beef, and half the sauce. Repeat layers. Top with cheese.
5. **Bake**: Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15–20 minutes, until potatoes are tender and cheese is golden.
6. **Rest & Serve**: Let sit 5–10 minutes before serving to set.
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### **Description**
Each bite of this casserole delivers creamy, cheesy goodness intertwined with savory beef and soft, flavorful potatoes. The top is perfectly crisped, the center rich and luscious — a nostalgic nod to traditional comfort food with modern ease.
Nutritional Information** *(Per Serving — based on 6 servings)*
– **Calories**: ~450
– **Protein**: 25g
– **Carbohydrates**: 28g
– **Fat**: 28g
– **Fiber**: 3g
– **Sodium**: 780mg
– **Calcium**: 18% DV
